More than 2 million people in the United States have earned real estate licenses. However, real estate is a tough business with a steep dropout rate, and the result is that only a small percentage of those with licenses actively help buyers and sellers. Finding an agency with a solid reputation and a long history of experience in the community is critical.
Agents who are active in PTAs, local government committees and a variety of neighborhood or community organizations have a better understanding of the area in which they are working. Buying and selling real estate is a complex matter. At first it might seem that by checking local listings or online sites you could quickly find an agent to represent your needs.
But a basic rule in real estate is that all properties are unique. No two properties — even two identical models on the same street — are precisely and exactly alike. Homes differ and so do contract terms, financing options, inspection requirements and closing costs. Also, no two transactions are alike.
In this maze of forms, financing, inspections, marketing, pricing and negotiating, it makes sense to work with professionals who know the community and much more.
How do you choose?
In Marion, as in any community, you will to find a number of realty brokerage firms. Some sources for finding a Realtor include visiting open houses or viewing local advertising or Web sites. Recommendations from neighbors and suggestions from lenders, attorneys, financial planners and CPAs are also a valuable resource. The experiences and recommendations of past clients can be invaluable.
Whether you’re buying or selling, you should interview several agents before selecting one professional with whom to work. These interviews represent a good opportunity to consider such issues as training, experience and representation. Some questions you may want to ask:
- Does the agent have an active real estate license in good standing? To find this information, you can check with your state’s governing agency.
- Does the agent belong to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
- Is real estate their full-time career?
- Which party is he or she representing–you or the seller? This discussion is supposed to occur early on, at “first serious contact” with you. The agent should discuss your state’s particular definitions of agency, so you’ll know where you stand.
- In exchange for your commitment, how will the agent help you accomplish your goals? Show you homes that meet your requirements and provide you with a list of the properties he or she is showing you?
We want you to interview our sales associates. Ask any questions and feel free to offer comments regarding our staff and our services. Our goal is to provide comprehensive, professional service to our clients. You need to feel a strong sense of trust, and the knowledge that you’re dealing with honest, competent agents.
What should you expect?
Our company may seem small in size when compared to some agencies in the metro area. Some agencies have hundreds of agents… we don’t. Some have television programs… we don’t. Some own lending companies … we don’t. Others are owned by large out of state, corporate entities… we are not.
What you will find is a small, third generation, family owned company that is dedicated to providing their customers with comprehensive, professional real estate services. A company that listens to your needs. A company whose agents will work with you through the entire transaction, from beginning to end. And a company that prides itself on a reputation for honesty and integrity. We’ve been in this business for 50 years and we would like to put our experience to work for you!
